From Acupuncture to Interaction between 𝜹-Opioid Receptors and Na⁺ Channels: A Potential Pathway to Inhibit Epileptic Hyperexcitability

Figure 1

Schematic demonstration of the potential relation between acupuncture, opioid, and Na⁺ channels in the regulation of brain hyperexcitability and epileptic seizures. Acupuncture can regulate the levels of endogenous opioids and their receptors in the brain. The released opioids activate δ-opioid receptors, and Na⁺ channels are inhibited by activated δ-opioid receptors via signaling molecules such as PKC. Thus the neuronal discharges are inhibited and overexcited brain is “cooled” leading to the termination of epilepsy.